Day Out – Horashim Forest

Hello from another day out post! This one comes from Israel and a little hike/trip just out of Kefar Sava. I went to the Horashim Forest just next to Nirit on a gorgeous, sunny afternoon. I think one of the most underrated parts of Israel is the countryside and nature. So many people come to visit the cities and biblical sites but the wilderness is top of my list. The climate is very diverse (and yes there is a lot of desert) but also a lot of greenery. This time of year is wonderful as the flowers are starting to bloom and the sun isn’t too overwhelming so walking is enjoyable and not tolerable haha.

When you drive up to the entrance there’s lots of parking and picnic tables. I saw so many families on little outings with their hiking boots/gallons of water but really you can make this trip as intense as you want. There is a rough outline of a path for you to follow but I say get off the path! Definitely climb up the big hills as the views are incredible. You can see neighbouring villages, trees, cacti and even city skylines on a clear day. Pack a lunch and enjoy it whilst looking out at nature you normally only see on a Windows screensaver. There are lots of Arab villages in the area so it’s also a great idea to stop in one of them for a nice meal of falafel, salads and houmous!

If you’re based in Tel Aviv of course you could go to the beach or Yarkon park but I think getting out and witnessing a different aspect is pretty fun. It’s by no means touristy and you can get a sense of the ‘real’ Israel. As I said you can make this hike as intense as you want with little loops, big ones, hills, flat paths etc. A lot of people were on bikes and ATVs which is probably a lot of fun as some of the paths are very rocky and dusty. Enjoy your week and speak spoon amigos!